Summer 2012: Food

The 2012 theme, Food: Feeding Ourselves and the World

Students will study the topic of food in all of its historical, social, political and scientific aspects. Over the course of five weeks, students will work with food and nutrition experts, educators on the topic, governmental leaders and other experts to explore such questions as:

• What has caused the global food crisis?
• What is the latest in food research?
• How do we tap into new food production sources?
• What are genetically modified organisms (GMOs)? Are they safe?
• What have past food usage and growth methods taught us?
• Has the food crisis affected travel and globalization?
• Are there any privacy concerns with new and existing food sources and labeling?

 
Working together, students will apply the knowledge and skills gained over the summer to address real world concerns.  Teams of students will work on projects to integrate insights gained from all disciplines – math, science/technology and humanities.  Students will need to understand the science behind any argument; analyze current statistical evidence and prepare their arguments based on available data; and be able to defend the argument within historical and political context.